The Jewish Ghetto

The ancient Jewish quarter of Venice was named after the old foundry (getto) that once stood here. This was the first ghetto ever created, and Jews were forced to live here from 1516 until the 1800s. Now, the large central campo is the perfect place to take a break from the hordes of tourists.

It’s quiet and shady, and so well preserved that it’s not hard to half shut your eyes and imagine the daily life of its inhabitants in centuries past. The ghetto is also home to a Jewish Museum of Venice, found in a unique architectural complex that includes two tiny synagogues.